DOH Announces New Task Force

South Dakota has formed the Maternal and Infant Health Task Force to combat the alarming rise in pregnancy-related deaths, which have more than doubled over the past decade. This statewide initiative unites healthcare providers, tribal leaders, parents, and state officials to improve maternal and infant health outcomes and support families across the state.

By Christal Blue May 1, 2025 1:02 pm

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MITCHELL, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota has launched a new statewide effort aimed at reducing deaths among mothers and babies. Called the Maternal and Infant Health Task Force, the initiative comes in response to a troubling rise in pregnancy-related deaths, which the Department of Health says have more than doubled in the last 10 years. The task force brings together healthcare providers, tribal representatives, state officials, parents, and others to find solutions and improve outcomes for families across the state.

Lifestyle

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Bird Flu Outbreak Hits South Dakota Turkey Flocks

South Dakota is facing a major bird flu outbreak, with more than 135,000 turkeys destroyed at three facilities to contain the spread. North Dakota has also reported cases, losing over 60,000 turkeys in commercial flocks. Agriculture officials stress that poultry products remain safe to eat despite the outbreak.

Government

1 day ago

AG Marty Jackley Launches Campaign for Congress

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has officially entered the race for Congress, launching his campaign in his hometown of Sturgis. Jackley, now in his fourth term as Attorney General, joins State Senator Casey Crabtree in the Republican primary to replace Congressman Dusty Johnson, who is seeking the governor’s office. Highlighting his conservative record, Jackley says he will prioritize public safety, border security, economic growth, and accountability in Washington while continuing to serve as AG.

Crime

1 day ago

Huron Contractor Sentenced for Defrauding Customers

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Government

1 day ago

Freedom Caucus Pushes Back on $650M Prison Plan

South Dakota lawmakers will meet in a special session to decide on a proposed $650 million men’s penitentiary in Sioux Falls, but members of the Freedom Caucus remain opposed. While Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen, who led the prison task force, says he’s confident in the plan’s passage, caucus members fear the price tag could balloon to $1 billion. Governor Rhoden’s office maintains the project is capped at $650 million.

Government

1 day ago

Mitchell Plans Second Fire Station to Speed Up Response Times

Mitchell city officials are proposing a $2.5 million fire station on the north side of town to improve emergency response times and reduce insurance costs for residents. The station would be built near the old water treatment plant on Highway 37, with design work beginning in 2026 and an opening planned for 2027. City leaders say the new location will allow firefighters to reach the north side more quickly, while housing four firefighters who will share equipment with the current Public Safety building.